Most dont require you to have a Four year degree, however they pick applicants with the 4 year degree first which most often leave out the pilots with out them. Like two piles of Resumes, one with the 4 year degree and on with out. Once they run out of the four year degree pile then they go on to the other pile.

The fact is you aren't competitive for the best jobs unless you have a degree. You can make up for the lack of a degree with pure dumb luck or by spending many extra years at a lower level....once you have 10,000 hours PIC jet and five type ratings your resume looks pretty impressive, even without a degree.

The regional airlines don't require a degree so much...if you'd be happy with that then don't worry about college.